Shrimp Scampi is a classic seafood dish that has earned its place as a favorite among seafood lovers. Originating from Italian-American cuisine, this dish combines tender shrimp with a rich, buttery garlic sauce that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, Shrimp Scampi is both elegant and easy to make. This recipe will guide you through the steps to create a perfectly balanced, flavorful dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients for Shrimp Scampi
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti (optional, for serving)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Perfect Shrimp Scampi
- Prepare the Shrimp:
- Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This will help ensure that the shrimp sear nicely in the pan.
- Season the shrimp lightly with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Pasta (if using):
- If you’re serving the scampi over pasta, cook the linguine or spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Shrimp:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Once the butter has melted and starts to bubble, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook the shrimp for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic and red pepper flakes for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to let the garlic burn.
- Pour in the white wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the wine simmer for about 2 minutes, or until it has reduced slightly.
- Add the chicken broth and lemon juice. Let the mixture simmer for another 2 minutes.
- Finish the Dish:
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and stir to coat them with the sauce. Let them cook in the sauce for another 1-2 minutes to reheat and absorb the flavors.
- Stir in the chopped parsley and remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, allowing the butter to melt into the sauce.
- Serve:
- If using pasta, toss the cooked pasta with the shrimp and sauce, or serve the shrimp and sauce over the pasta.
- Garnish with extra chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
About the Main Ingredients
- Shrimp: The star of the dish, shrimp should be fresh and of high quality. Large shrimp are ideal for this recipe as they provide a satisfying bite and absorb the flavors of the sauce well. Ensure they are peeled and deveined for the best texture and ease of eating.
- Butter and Olive Oil: A combination of butter and olive oil creates a rich, flavorful base for the scampi sauce. The butter adds a creamy texture, while the olive oil provides a subtle fruitiness and helps with browning the shrimp.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for the bold, aromatic flavor in Shrimp Scampi. It should be minced finely to ensure it distributes evenly throughout the dish.
- White Wine: Dry white wine adds depth to the sauce, balancing the richness of the butter. The alcohol evaporates during cooking, leaving behind a complex flavor.
- Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish, adding a tangy contrast to the rich sauce. It also helps to balance the flavors and adds a fresh note.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a hint of freshness to the dish. It’s used both in the sauce and as a garnish.
- Red Pepper Flakes: These provide a gentle heat to the dish. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
This Shrimp Scampi recipe combines all these elements into a deliciously satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your meal with a side of crusty bread to soak up every last bit of the flavorful sauce!
